What are the key signs of human trafficking?

  • You might not realize someone you know or meet is “in traffic.”
  • Sex trafficking afflicts over 12 million Americans each year, including over 1,000 in DC, MD, and VA in the last 5 years
  • Here are quoted several major signs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes indicated that someone may be being trafficked
  • Has the individual previously or currently:
    • Appeared disconnected from family, friends, community organizations, or houses of worship?
    • If a child, stopped attending school?
    • Had a sudden or dramatic change in behavior?
    • Engaged in commercial sex acts despite being a juvenile?
    • Seemed disoriented or confused, or showing signs of mental or physical abuse?
    • Appeared with bruises in various stages of healing?
    • Seemed fearful, timid, or submissive?
    • Shown signs of having been denied food, water, sleep, or medical care?
    • Been in the company of someone to whom he or she defers or seems to be in control of the situation, e.g., where they go or who they talk to?
    • Appeared coached on what to say to others?
    • Lived in unsuitable conditions?
    • Lacked personal possessions and appear not to have a stable living situation?
    • Lacked  of movement or are there unreasonable security measures on when they can leave?
  • Although 80% of human trafficking victims are women and children, males and those with multiple of gender identities and many age groups are also trafficked.
  • A more extensive list provided by the National Human Trafficking Hotline may be found here
    • This page details signs that include
      • Common living and working conditions
      • Mental health and behavioral symptoms
      • Physical  health symptoms
      • Signs that one’s life is controlled by another
      • Other symptoms
    • We recommend this source for those seeking more detailed information. Someone does not need to meet all of the criterion, and if you suspect someone may be in distress, it is likely better to air on the side of trying to help in a manner that is safe for both you and the person in distress

 

What YOU Can Do

  • If an emergency, call 911 and the National Human Trafficking Hotline +1(888) 373-7888 in a safe manner
  • If this is a non-emergency because you are looking to help someone you know who has recently been liberated, consult our Organizations and Resources page for information on support services available.
  • Share this website to raise awareness
  • Consult our Policy Action page to understand how you can push for more resources and support

 

Credit: ImgFlip.com

 

*Disclaimer: This the Public Health and Policy Issue Group utilizes a variety of publicly available sources to aggregate information. We are extremely grateful for these sources, which we always link to and credit. Nothing on this site, nor links to other information, is intended to serve as a substitute for personal judgement as every situation is unique in a way that general information cannot predict. Always act in a way that maintains safety for you and someone you feel may be in distress. We deplore all forms of discrimination.